A delegation from South Sudan, led by the Undersecretary for the Ministry of Peacebuilding, Mr. Pia Philip Michael, has applauded the National Peace Council (NPC) of Ghana for its outstanding contributions to national peace and stability. The delegation expressed admiration for the Council’s innovative strategies in conflict resolution, emphasizing their relevance to South Sudan’s ongoing peace-building efforts.
National Peace Council: Guardians of Ghana’s Stability
The National Peace Council, established under the National Peace Council Act, 2011 (Act 818), is a statutory body tasked with facilitating the prevention, management, and resolution of conflicts in Ghana. With its roots in fostering national cohesion, the NPC has played a critical role in promoting dialogue and mediation across political, ethnic, and religious divides.
Its efforts have been pivotal in diffusing tensions during elections, addressing inter-communal conflicts, and fostering reconciliation in post-conflict situations. Through a decentralized structure, the NPC operates at both national and regional levels, engaging community leaders, civil society organizations, and policymakers to cultivate a culture of peace.
Ghana’s Peace Model Shared with South Sudan
During the visit, Dr. George Amoh, the Executive Secretary of the NPC, briefed the South Sudanese delegation on the Council’s journey and achievements. He highlighted its role in promoting peaceful elections, mediating disputes, and fostering social cohesion in Ghana.
Mr. Pia Philip Michael commended the NPC’s proactive approach and its ability to adapt strategies to local contexts. “The National Peace Council has demonstrated the power of inclusive dialogue and innovative conflict resolution. These lessons are critical for South Sudan as we strive to strengthen our own peace-building framework,” he remarked.
The delegation’s visit underscores the importance of cross-border collaboration in global peace efforts. By exchanging knowledge and experiences, both nations aim to enhance their capacity to address conflicts and foster long-term stability.
Strengthening South Sudan’s Peace-Building Efforts
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has faced significant challenges in maintaining peace due to years of civil conflict. The Ministry of Peacebuilding, a relatively new institution, has prioritized learning from successful models such as Ghana’s NPC.
The visit marked an opportunity for South Sudan to explore strategies for institutionalizing peace efforts and empowering community-based conflict resolution.
Looking Ahead
As South Sudan seeks to strengthen its peace architecture, the partnership with Ghana represents a critical step toward achieving sustainable stability. For Ghana, the NPC’s growing recognition as a model for peace-building affirms its position as a beacon of hope and resilience on the African continent.
